A planned general strike at the Banque de Financement des Petites et Moyennes Entreprises (BFPME) in Tunisia has been postponed indefinitely. The strike, scheduled for September 23, was called by the Fédération Générale des Banques, des Établissements Financiers et des Compagnies d'Assurance (UGTT). According to the union, the decision to postpone the strike was made due to progress made on several demands.
The UGTT had submitted a notice on August 14, outlining five main demands. These included maintaining health coverage for retirees, payment of their financial rights, a rescue program for the bank, implementation of already signed agreements, and the introduction of telework in accordance with a 2022 presidential decree. The union reported progress on health coverage for retirees, regularization of professional situations, workplace safety, and examination of telework through a dedicated commission.
Despite the progress made, the union continues to demand a clear strategy from the supervisory authority regarding the bank's future. The BFPME reported a loss of 13.1 million dinars in 2024, with negative equity of 53 million dinars and a portfolio of doubtful credits amounting to 93%. The bank's auditors pointed out several irregularities in the management of assets and receivables.
The postponement of the strike does not signal an end to the tensions accumulated in the Tunisian banking sector. The sector has experienced social unrest for several months, marked by a three-day strike in June 2026 and a two-day strike in November 2025, both related to blocked salary negotiations.
The UGTT reported that some demands remain unaddressed, including a provision in the Commercial Code related to interest rates. However, the union considers the progress made so far to be significant. The bank's situation remains a concern, with ongoing discussions on its future.
The BFPME's financial situation is a pressing issue, with significant losses and doubtful credits. The bank's auditors have raised concerns about the management of assets and receivables. A clear strategy is needed to address these challenges and ensure the bank's stability.
The postponement of the strike provides temporary relief, but the underlying issues remain. The UGTT and the bank's management will need to continue negotiations to address the outstanding demands and find a solution to the bank's financial difficulties.
Key points
- Progress made on several union demands led to the postponement of the strike.
- The bank's financial situation remains a concern, with significant losses and doubtful credits.
- The UGTT continues to demand a clear strategy from the supervisory authority regarding the bank's future.
